How Much Does an MRI Cost in Chennai? Let’s Break It Down
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a key diagnostic tool for imaging soft tissues, the brain, spine, joints, and abdomen. It helps identify conditions like neurological disorders, spinal issues, and musculoskeletal ailments—without using harmful X‑ray radiation.
In Chennai, the MRI cost in Chennai typically ranges between ₹3,000 for a basic brain scan and ₹12,000 or more for advanced scans with contrast or angiography. This guide walks you through cost factors, expected price ranges, and trusted diagnostic centres across the city.
What Affects MRI Cost in Chennai?
1. Type and Region of Scan
- Routine plain scans (brain, knee, spine) cost less—starting around ₹3,000.
- Adding contrast dye, angiographic views, or full‑body images increases cost substantially.
2. Machine Strength
- Facilities with 1.5 Tesla (1.5 T) MRI machines charge normally.
- 3 Tesla (3 T) systems produce higher-resolution images at a premium.
3. Centre Reputation and Services
- Premium hospitals may charge higher fees but offer faster reports and advanced care.
- Budget-friendly centres may limit scan complexity but keep costs low.
4. Online vs On‑site Booking
- Booking online through certain platforms can reduce MRI cost in Chennai by ₹500–₹1,000 for standard scans.
5. Government vs Private
- Public hospitals offer subsidized MRI scans (roughly ₹2,500–₹4,000), but queues and limited slots are common.
Estimated MRI Cost in Chennai by Scan Type (Standard Price Range)
| Scan Type | Expected Price Range (INR) |
|---|---|
| Brain MRI (plain) | ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 |
| Brain with Contrast | ₹5,500 – ₹8,000 |
| Whole-Spine MRI | ₹5,500 – ₹9,000 |
| Knee/Shoulder/Joint Scan | ₹4,500 – ₹7,000 |
| Abdomen/Pelvis MRI | ₹5,500 – ₹9,000 |
| Angiography (MRA) | ₹6,000 – ₹12,000 |
| Full-body or Multi-region MRI | ₹7,000 – ₹12,000+ |
Costs vary slightly by centre and discounts may apply based on scan type.
Top 10 MRI Scan Centres in Chennai
Each centre listed below includes a hyperlink only on the centre name, along with address, contact number, and starting cost for a plain scan:
| Centre (Name) | Location | Starting Price* | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anderson Diagnostics & Labs | T. Nagar / Poonamallee High Rd | ₹3,500 | +91 44 2433 5555 |
| Aarthi Scans & Labs | Anna Nagar, Velachery, Kilpauk | ₹2,800 | +91 75500 75500 |
| Scans World | Kodambakkam | ₹2,500 | +91 44 2483 1555 |
| Medall Scans | Nungambakkam | ₹3,000 | +91 44 4005 1000 |
| Apollo Clinic – Anna Nagar | Anna Nagar | ₹4,000 | +91 44 2620 2000 |
| Saravana Scans | Velachery | ₹2,700 | +91 44 2243 2255 |
| Vijaya Diagnostic Centre | Vadapalani | ₹3,200 | +91 44 4395 3959 |
| Kauvery Hospital Diagnostic Centre | Alwarpet | ₹4,500 | +91 44 4000 6000 |
| Lucid Medical Diagnostics | Perambur | ₹3,000 | +91 44 4410 7700 |
| Prime Scans & Labs | Tambaram | ₹2,900 | +91 44 2226 1555 |
*Starting cost refers to basic brain or kneeplain MRI scans; costs can change depending on scan type.
Choosing the Right MRI Centre in Chennai
- Budget Scans: For basic scans under ₹3,000–₹3,500, choose centres like Scans World, Saravana Scans, or Aarthi Scans.
- Advanced Imaging: If you need contrast or high-resolution 3 T imaging, consider Apollo Clinic, Kauvery Diagnostics, or Anderson Diagnostics.
- Urgent Scans: Centres like Medall Scans and Vijaya Diagnostics offer faster report delivery and extended hours.
- Government Option: Public hospitals offer low-cost scans but with long wait periods and limited availability.
Saving Tips to Reduce MRI Cost in Chennai
- Book online via official centre portals; many offer discounts for standard scans upfront.
- Carry previous reports—some centres may offer discounted follow-up scans.
- Avoid unnecessary contrast use when not medically required.
- Opt for standard resolution scans if your condition doesn’t require 3 T.
- Verify insurance coverage—some plans cover scanning if ordered during hospital admission.
Summary
- Base MRI cost in Chennai for routine scans typically falls between ₹2,500 and ₹4,000.
- More complex scans involving contrast or multiple areas may cost ₹6,000–₹12,000 or more.
- Scans World, Aarthi Scans, and Saravana Scans offer the most affordable options.
- Apollo Clinic, Anderson Diagnostics, and Kauvery Hospital provide high-end imaging with faster turnaround and quality assurances.
- If price is the priority and time flexible, public facilities remain the most cost-effective option.
Conclusion
Understanding MRI cost in Chennai helps you plan your healthcare with clarity. Whether you’re looking for affordability or accuracy, Chennai offers a wide range of diagnostic centres to suit your needs.
- For budget-friendly plain scans, consider Scans World, Aarthi Scans, or Saravana Scans.
- For advanced imaging with contrast or angiography, go with Anderson Diagnostics, Apollo Clinic, or Kauvery Diagnostics.
- If accessibility and speed are priorities, Medall Scans and Vijaya Diagnostics deliver prompt results.
This guide should serve as a practical starting point for choosing a diagnostic facility that offers a balance of price, technology, and turnaround time. For more information visit; https://mrichennai.in/